During our journey through the amazing Philippines I receive an invitation to stay in two different accommodations of the Bluewater Resorts. With their statement that they are an authentic Filipino accommodation they make me curious and I would love to discover this myself. Conclusion? What a lovely place. Both of them. From the time of entry the ‘ yes sirs “and” ma’ams” start and they won’t stop being all sweet and helpful until you leave again. The Filipinos are always smiling, are incredibly friendly and above all: are sincere, hospitable and involved. I feel welcome. These two amazing places are definitely worth named a hotspot and if you want to relax and spend a night on one of these beautiful Philippine islands, give these accommodations with the slogan “Very Filipino” a thought. On two different islands, Cebu Island (Marigabo) and Panglao Island, I discover the true ‘Bluewater Resorts’. I’ll take you to both places.
 

Bluewater Resort Panglao Island

The first accommodation that we may visit is the Bluewater Resort on Panglao Island. All I see when I arrive are authentic details and the very warm and welcoming staff is just amazing. After a tasteful welcome drink and lunch with the owner we understand why the slogan is ‘Very Filipino’. The entire management and staff are Filipino from origin and they are shining bright like the sun. I have not yet met such lovely people. Asians are friendly and welcoming, but the Filipinos…So so so generous and sweet. It touches them sincerely that travelers often skip the Philippines after all natural disasters and misery, while they are so proud of their country. I can tell you that this is indeed a shame and unnecessary. We go to our room, the ‘Premier Deluxe Suite’. Upon entering, my mouth opens and I have to stop myself from jumping on the beds. They float. THEY FLOAT! There are floating beds! What a fine, bright colours and the bathroom is magical. In Asia they have those fantastic outdoor showers and this space does make you feel like you’re in the midst of nature, relaxing and taking a bath. We walk through the area outside and enjoy the tropical gardens and the pool. The typical Filipino diner at Alplaya’s is delicious and the view is magical. What a beautiful bay they own. Small but magical and with a romantic atmosphere, and the color of the water continues to amaze me. I want to be here all day and sit, meditate, think. Unfortunately the weather was bad (typhoon …) so we did not use the free kayak & snorkel-ability, but being here at this moment is just enough for us.

Bluewater Resort Maribago, Cebu

This beautiful resort is located on the island of Cebu. We were stuck on Bohol because of the typhoon and unfortunately we arrived quite late at this resort, while we had an early flight next morning. Nevertheless, we have enjoyed this moment of Filipino hospitality for the fullest. Welcomed with a lemongrass – calamansi juice we go to our room. This time we test a different type of Bluewater room: the Amumi Spa Room. Situated in front of the swimming pool (lagoon feeling) and near the spa. The room has authentic Filipino accents (the shells in the door…beautiful!) and even though the colors in the room seem a bit dark, the bathroom directly draws my attention. I have a soft spot for outdoor bathrooms or with the feeling of being outdoor. The latter is the case here. There are stones on the ground (that we now do want to have at home as well) and everything is from wood and other natural materials. And lots of light. Heaven. The entire resort is built around the nature that was already there, the original trees, meadows and plants are still at their place and all you see when walking around are lakes, tropical gardens and bridges. What a lovely atmosphere. Everything is open-air, the different restaurants are impressive (check that lamp of washed up shells!) and the private beach with private island seem like paradise. Everything is possible here, there are even different water sports available and they have a pound with sharks. SHARKS! Our dinner at the Allegro restaurant disappoints us unfortunately, but the breakfast is divine. This is a great place and I recommend it to relax or when you have a flight the next day: the airport is just around the corner. The Philippine details, the atmosphere and extremely friendly staff touches me. I hope to return here someday.